Mamma Mia’s is one of York’s oldest and most authentic Italian trattorias, serving authentic Italian food at value prices near to Bootham Bar, Exhibition Square and the coach park.

A true Italian family-run restaurant, Mamma Mia has been a fixture in York’s restaurant scene for decades. Anyone who longs to visit Luigis, the 80s cop hang-out in Ashes to Ashes will love it.

No frills or fancy dan stuff here – I had prawns and asparagus in tagliatelle; I was warned in advance about the garlic levels – mouthwateringly high – but not about the black pepper, which was fresh and cracked to perfection.

A delightful courtyard to the rear sits under the city walls and accomodates smokers. The conservatory at the back is light and airy – but for the true trattoria feel, get a table at the front and listen to this wonderful Italian family run their restaurant. You could well nigh be in Tuscany.

Proper York rating: 7/10
Price indicator: £
Website: www.mamma-mia-york.co.uk